Former India fast bowler Manpreet Gony has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to allow Indian cricketers to play foreign leagues to earn money and sustain their families. Notably, as per the norms of the apex body, active players are not allowed to play in foreign leagues without BCCI’s permission.
Recently, veteran batsman Suresh Raina and former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan also spoke on the same lines during an Instagram Live chat. Gony, who announced his retirement last year, who echoed the same emotions. Notably, Manpreet Gony has played key roles for Indian Premier League franchises Chennai Super Kings and Kings XI Punjab.
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Meanwhile, going by BCCI regulations, a player has to announce his retirement from all forms of cricket, including IPL to be eligible to participate in foreign leagues. Gony said that BCCI should reconsider their rule and allow cricketers to play foreign league and earn a living.
“There are so many BCCI players who play IPL and can be earmarked to become the future of Indian cricket. Then there are players who play in Ranji Trophy but don’t find a spot in any IPL team. These players should be allowed to play foreign leagues, mainly so that they can earn enough money to contribute and run their family,” Gony said during a chat with Sportskeeda.
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Incidentally, due to immense competition, many talented cricketers who do well in domestic cricket miss out on an IPL contract. Manpreet Gony believes BCCI should allow those players to play in foreign leagues and enjoy the game along with earning money.
“When some players do well in Ranji Trophy, they have a chance of playing in the IPL. When they can’t, they should play elsewhere. Players from all over the world play in foreign T20 leagues since cricket is their life. If BCCI don’t give them a chance, how will they live life or run their families?,” added Gony.